By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The academic community of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has once again been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of one of the youngest associate professors in the University, Associate Professor (Builder) Fidelis Okechukwu Ezeokoli, a senior lecturer in the Department of Building, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, who also served as a former Head of Department.
News of his sudden death sent shockwaves across the institution and the broader academic landscape, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, students, friends, and loved ones, who described him as a brilliant academic, a dedicated teacher, a humble personality, and an irreplaceable loss to the university.
According to multiple reports, the 39-year-old respected scholar and proud son of Ekwulobia in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, died in a fatal motor accident
at his prime and while expectations were ripe for his next promotion. Though the full circumstances surrounding the accident remain sketchy, sources confirmed it was a road crash that claimed his life in what many have described as a painful and untimely death.
Described by many as a rising star in academia and an impactful teacher who was passionate about mentoring young professionals in the field of Building Technology, Associate Prof. Ezeokoli’s death has left a deep vacuum in the department, where he had served with distinction.
In a condolence message currently trending on social media, the Faculty of Environmental Sciences expressed their grief over the irreplaceable loss, stating: “The Department of Building, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, sadly announces the sudden passing of her staff, senior lecturer, young academia, brother and friend, Associate Prof. (Bldr) Fidelis Okechukwu Ezeokoli, who was the former HOD of the Department. He died through a motor accident. Your good deeds will forever be remembered. Rest in peace.”
In addition to being a revered lecturer, Associate Professor Ezeokoli was also said to be known for his active involvement in professional and community development activities and had remained a strong voice in the Built Environment sector in Nigeria.
The university community, alumni, professional colleagues, and the people of Ekwulobia have continued to express condolences to the bereaved family and the Department of Building Technology, describing his death as a huge loss to humanity, the academic world, and the built environment.
Meanwhile, in a burial poster shared on social media, the family of the deceased, led by Mr. Ifeanyi Celestine Ezeokoli, has officially announced funeral arrangements for the late scholar, whose remains will be committed to mother earth on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
According to the funeral poster released over the weekend by the family, a Vigil Mass will be held in his honour on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at the family compound in Ula, Ekwulobia.
It added that the lying-in-state and Requiem Mass will take place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the same venue, beginning from 8:00 a.m., with interment immediately after the Mass; while a thanksgiving mass will be held on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at the Immaculate Heart Catholic Church, Ula, Ekwulobia, at 9:00 a.m.
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